FAST DRAW shitsujitsu goken CAP-0090-1

Back to the Underground: Fast Draw’s ‘Shitsujitsu Goken’ (CAP-0090-L)

Today we revisit the Japanese underground heavy metal band Fast Draw, focusing on their album “Shitsujitsu Goken” (質実剛健), released on the influential independent label Captain Records with the catalog number CAP-0090-L.

Issued in 1988, this 12-inch vinyl LP likely represents the band’s second major release, following their 1987 debut “Complex” on Fasten Up Records. Moving to Captain Records placed them on a label known for its diverse roster spanning punk, hardcore, and metal, highlighting the vibrant cross-genre energy of the Japanese indie scene.

The title “Shitsujitsu Goken” translates roughly to concepts like “unaffected and sincere,” “simple and sturdy,” or “with fortitude and vigor.” This might suggest a musical approach focused on powerful, straightforward heavy metal, perhaps with an emphasis on raw energy and solid songwriting rather than excessive frills. Listeners can expect the continuation of Fast Draw’s energetic, riff-driven style, blending heavy metal power with potentially speed metal influences, characteristic of the late 80s underground J-Metal sound.

CAP-0090-L is another important artifact for collectors documenting the Japanese independent metal scene. It captures Fast Draw’s work on the well-regarded Captain Records label, preserving their contribution to the energetic and diverse underground landscape of the era.